The NIST cybersecurity framework offers voluntary guidance about securing businesses and protecting their networks and data from cybersecurity threats. According to the National Cyber Security Alliance, 60% of small businesses close down only six months after a cybersecurity attack. Have you ever wondered why this is the case? The majority of small businesses retreat and fall apart shortly after a cybersecurity incident because they do not have a recovery plan. However, to fully understand this issue, we must take a few steps back and think about why they need a recovery plan in the first place.
There is an enormous increase in numbers and statistics regarding cybersecurity attacks carried out on a yearly basis. The majority of these attacks targets small businesses because their systems are easier to breach compared to large corporations. Unfortunately, most small businesses are easy targets because they don’t pay a lot of attention to cybersecurity. Those who follow the NIST framework are more likely to secure their businesses and keep their data protected in case of a security incident of any kind.
Let’s face it, all businesses that operate online (whether fully or partially) are exposed to the same security risks. Poor security measures, uneducated employees, use of mobile devices, and lack of security software can all be the causes of an unwanted cybersecurity attack. These days, hackers are using various methods to get their hands on people’s sensitive information, from attacking systems, payment portals, and personal smartphones, to intercepting financial transactions or shopping payments.
Without the ability to first identify a threat, then protect yourself from it, and then properly respond to the incident, your business is likely going to suffer. Businesses and companies that lack these basic security measures and protocols always end up dealing with the consequences, whether those are financial fines, damaged reputation, or damaged networks and systems. Either way, following the NIST security guidelines can save you the headache and help you protect your business from the core.
The NIST framework was first launched in 2014 as a framework for Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity. It was created to protect businesses and organizations in all industries from various kinds of security threats. The framework will help you understand and implement risk assessment processes in your business, which will allow you to spot vulnerabilities and deal with them before it is too late.
Overall, the NIST framework is an extremely helpful asset when it comes to securing your business. It can help you prevent security incidents and all consequences tied to data breaches and similar threats. Keep in mind that compliance with the NIST framework is not legally required but it is highly recommended for establishing a proper cybersecurity system. The framework will also teach you how to limit employee’s access to certain types of data, how to create security policies and install software that will keep your systems secure. Overall, the NIST framework can save your small business from disappearing after a cybersecurity incident.